Getting Started

When it comes to Pilates, private tuition is the best way to start. Pilates training is both mentally and physically complex, requiring great attention to detail. When you have a thorough grip of the working principles and can put them into practice without too many reminders you may wish to progress into a group.

Progressing to a group Apparatus Class

Whatever your fitness levels an apparatus group class is suitable for you. Here you will enjoy the widest range of Pilates work and experience it as a complete system. You will work with the Reformer, the Cadillac, Barrels, Chairs and the CoreAlign, following a programme tailored to meet your needs.

In addition, you will learn some Mat work so that you can practice at home. A therapist or doctor may have advised you to undertake some Pilates. If you are looking for post-rehab exercise or want to resolve some postural or health issues you will get best results by undertaking a course of apparatus based Pilates.

Apparatus classes are mixed ability and work in groups of 4-6, with groups of more than 5 supervised by two teachers. You should take at least one private class as a pre-requisite to joining a group. Your teacher will advise when it is appropriate for you to progress.

Progressing to a group Reformer Class

For a more upbeat form of Pilates, it is best to join a reformer class for a faster moving all-round workout. This type of class works exclusively with the Reformer and will help to tone and strengthen the body.

In the UK, it is common to find Pilates classes being run in gyms, fitness clubs, health centres, and spas. However, because there is no national standard for the teaching of Pilates, it is fair to say that not all Pilates teachers are created equal. The UK government is attempting to establish some sort of national standard for the teaching of Pilates through Skillsactive. A Register of Exercise Professionals has already been established. This standard currently does not apply to studio teaching. When approaching a prospective Pilates teacher you should ask a few questions such as Where did you train? For how long? How long have you been teaching Pilates? How much anatomy have you done? Did your training include real-life case studies? What size groups did you teach? Quality teachers, like those you will find at COOL Pilates, will have trained for at least one year full-time, while continuing to undertake Professional Development courses.